Holladay, Utah- On Saturday 4/27/2024 Marvene left this mortal world peacefully in her sleep surrounded by loved ones. She is now with the love her life. Her sweet Ricky. Marvene was born on 1/29/1950 in Toronto Ontario Canada to Robert and Jennie France. Marvene was the oldest of three children. Marvene spent her childhood and early adult life in Canada where she began her career as a travel agent. Her journey to Utah started on a river trip where she met her river guide Rick Smith. And instant love connection was made and that blossomed into 26 years of marriage. Marv worked for Executive Travel and Travel Zone in Salt Lake City for 22 years, where she made many friends and developed relationships to last a lifetime. Marvene was the mother to her only child Ryan Smith. She adored her curly haired, fun loving boy so much and many lasting memories were made. In 2012 Marvene became a grandmother to Danica. She adored her little Pookie. The two of them made many memories together. From baking cookies to fun girl day trips, there was never a conversation had without her in it. On December 18th 2013 Marvene was the recipient of a lung transplant, courtesy of her generous Donor Seth and the many talented, caring Doctors and Nurses at the University of Utah Hospital. Marvene defied the odds of living 5 years longer than her doctors told her she would. She did so with great courage and tenacity. In 2022 Marvene was diagnosed with breast cancer and again came away the Victor! Unfortunately, through years of medicine and treatments to keep thriving her kidneys could no longer keep up. Marvene was the kindest person anyone knew. She gave her all to her family, friends and her time here on earth. Marvene is survived by her Son Ryan Smith 7/17/1979 Granddaughter Danica 5/31/2012. Step daughters Lisa Fairbanks (Jared) and Stacey Clifford, Grandsons Jacob, Talmage and Jonah Fairbanks. Grandsons Alex and Nathan Clifford and Granddaughter Elyse Clifford. Her beloved Sister forever Christine Mogridge(Reg) Cousins Linda, Carol, and Sue and many more. Marvene is preceded in death by her parents Robert and Jennie. Husband D. Richard Smith 7/12/2004 and brother Robert France. Marvene will leave us all with many fond wonderful memories to share and pass down. We will miss you tremendously! Special thanks to the Lung transplant coordination team and medical staff at the University for all your love, devotion and care. Special thanks to the wonderful caring staff at Cottonwood Creek Assisted living for all the attention given to Marvene. Especially Mark Mun. You went above and beyond for her in her last weeks with us. For funeral service information, please reach her son Ryan at 801-205-8025. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Marvene's name to the University of Utah's transplant programs.
Funeral services will occur Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 S Highland Drive, Millcreek, Utah 84106. . An afternoon viewing for Marvene will be held Wednesday, May 1, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM , Entombment: Wasatch Lawn Memorial Park.
